2. amps-preamps
  3. 148480-105825

Good starter amp recommendation

Was lurking for a while, decided to post.

I have an old system with Energy RC-30 speakers and currently using a Denon x3400h to drive them. The system is used mostly 80/20 for music/movies, and uses an Energy RC-LCR center for movies.

Would like to add a simple 2/3 channel amp for around $1000 to improve the sound and was looking at some more recommendations. Want it to be a good part of the system, but since the speakers are pretty basic, don't look for anything too fancy, but good enough to upgrade the speakers later on.

Looking around the forum, the following is my short list:
van Alstine SET 120 or Synergy 240/3
Odyssey Khartago (or used Stratos)
Anthem PVA or MCA (used is all I can afford, probably)
Parasound A23

Would like to hear any suggestions.
camradal
jrpnde
271 posts
 
The NAD is an integrated amp and the Nuforce is only a power amp. Going from an integrated to a separate pre/power opens up a whole new discussion.
The OP is currently using a Denon AVR receiver. I don't know if the Denon has pre-out capability to enable use of a separate power amp and if the OP has that intention? Or, to completely replace the Denon?
fokakis1's avatar
fokakis1
12 posts
 
You can find a Rotel RMB976mk2 for under $200.  It bridges to 150x3 and sounds good with Denon.  You can use your preouts on the x3400 to get solid power to your left, center, and right speakers.   
vishu's avatar
vishu
28 posts
 
I recently  got a 2nd set for my 5th wheel camper. NuPrime IDA 16 with Dynaudio Emit 10. Very impressed with this hybrid A+D integrated amp.
For the price $2000 CAD this performs better than may other amps I tried that cost many times more. I had limitation on the size of the speaker for my camper  that's the reason I got the Emit 10. I also own the Sopra N3 for my main system , tested the IDA 16. It was able to drive it very easily. IMHO I like the IDA 16 better than the Devialet 200 which cost $12000 CAD.Nuprime gives you 45 days many back policy. 
tweak1
3,665 posts
 
I concur, multi-channel is full of compromises. A quality 2 channel will through ghost images of miultichannel when so recorded

I have a Audio Alchemy DDP-1 + PS 5 and a DPA-1. These are excellent and can be purchased for at about 50%, which is a huge steal
mesch
3,488 posts
 
Since you are willing to go with a 2-channel system, a wise decision IMO, purchase a quality 2-channel integrated amplifier and save any funds from the remainder of the $1000 for speaker upgrade. 

Consider using digital PCM output from TV for movies.

Unless I have missed it, you have not said what music sources you are using. Yamaha makes a A-S701 integrated amp with phonostage, DAC, and  subwoofer output. It outputs 100wpc. I believe this is a good option, though not the only one. 

Vincent makes a SV-500 integrated, which has internal DAC at Audio Advisor sells for $1000. Outputs 50wpc. 

Please advise as to the sources you are using (considering).


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